The handsome white-crowned sparrow. it will nest in residential areas. It is a well known nesting species on the peninsula. its voice is series of short clear whistles followed by a few buzzy sounding notes. Listen for its distinctive song.

For me, all birds are magical. They bring joy, peace of mind and calm. Spring and summer birds bring us much avian charm.

They build nests, they lay eggs, incubate them, feed and look after their nestlings until they are old enough to go out into the world on their own. Cooperation between parents and their offspring often occurs. Young bald eagles from one clutch will often help their parents with the next. American crows are also known to receive some help from their young from one brood with the next set. Science supports the fact that the chicks of some songbirds from a previous clutch will often help their parents raise the next clutch of eggs. Science suggests that the chicks who take this on may do so until they are confident enough to find their own mate or have outlived their stay (A.F. Skutch, !935). More recent scientific research confirms these early findings.

Some Observer readers have indicated that they are seeing and enjoying nature at work. One reader saw his first fledged American robin on June 17. Juvenile robins have mottled gray backs, and a spotted breast. You will mostly likely see them foraging in leaf litter looking for small insects and earthworms. They may also be seen eating berries.

Eurasian collared-doves and hummingbirds are being reported as well. Another reader reported seeing female mallards with young, while yet another has noticed how busy the Anna’s and rufous hummingbirds are at their garden flowers searching for insects and gathering nectar. It is quite the treat to watch them hover over colorful flowers such as bright red geraniums, multi-colored petunias, deep pink or purple and red fuchsias, then inserting their beaks and very long tongues into the flowers to secure a tasty treat!

Another reader and friend reminded me that the presence of fledglings in her area has resulted in a quieter ambience. She is seeing fledgling house finches in large numbers in the north end of the peninsula, as well as still hearing the common yellowthroat belting out its, “witchitee, witchitee, witchitee.” Other species seen at the north end at feeders are the black-headed grosbeak, pine siskins, purple finch, dark-eyed juncos and chestnut-backed chickadees. The cliff swallows that nested under the eaves of the Oysterville Church appear to be incubating eggs.

Close by, over the river, a cinnamon teal and its ducklings, one marbled murrelet, an American avocet and a white-rumped sandpiper were seen. These Oregon birds add to the special character of spring and summer.

The life and beauty of the birds on our peninsula that we witness makes spring and summer truly enchanting. There are many other beauties to be seen and heard in the next few months including shorebirds such as black-bellied plover, spotted sandpiper and whimbrel. Enjoy and share the magic!

Happy birding!